Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 23 Sep 2026, 10:20 AM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed the vaccination and health requirements pilgrims must meet for the 1448 AH Hajj, led by the mandatory meningococcal vaccine, as countries begin registering pilgrims for 2027.
Saudi Arabia's Hajj 2027 operational calendar sets 14 August as the start of pilgrim data uploads on the Masar Nusuk platform, with visas issued from January and flights beginning in April.
The Haj Committee of India held its digital Qurrah draw for Hajj 2027 on 30 July and set 10 August 2026 as the deadline for selected pilgrims to pay the INR 152,300 advance amount.
The three-day National Hajj and Umrah Fair 2026, organised by HAAB in Dhaka, drew large crowds with 163 stalls and discounted airfares for Hajj 2027 and Umrah travellers.
Saudi Arabia has introduced a one-year, multiple-entry Umrah visa allowing pilgrims to enter the Kingdom repeatedly with a cumulative stay of up to 90 days, managed through the Nusuk platform.
Madinah authorities have reviewed their operational plan for the Umrah season while the agency running the Prophet's Mosque expands AI-based crowd management and new entry rules for visits to Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah.
Saudi Arabia rejects Nigeria’s request for extra 2027 Hajj slots Blueprint Newspapers
2027 Hajj: Saudi Arabia declines Nigeria’s request for additional slots Tribune Online
2027 Hajj: Saudi Arabia declines Nigeria’s request for additional slots Tribune Online
2027 Hajj: Saudi Arabia rejects Nigeria’s request for more slots Punch Newspapers
Makkah Mayoralty opens applications for Hajj 2027 catering contract Saudi Gazette
First Hajj Flight from Malaysia Heads to Saudi Arabia under Makkah Route Initiative spa.gov.sa